Asics Novablast 4 vs Asics Superblast
Vložit
- čas přidán 2. 06. 2024
- A comparison between the Asics Novablast 4 and the Asics Superblast on specs, how they fit, and which one is right for you.
0:00 Intro
00:55 Specs
3:50 Fit & Upper
8:18 Midsole & Ride
13:29 Outsole
15:09 The Verdict
17:32 The future of the Superblast
18:54 Outro
Asics Novablast 4 - Borrowing heavily from the Superblast • Asics Novablast 4 - Bo...
Is the Asics Superblast a sign of what’s next for running shoes? • Is the Asics Superblas...
Disclosures: No one is paying me to make this video and no one has any editorial control over the contents of this video. Additionally, I have no connection into Asics’s design or marketing process. Everything I cover in this video is my own opinion and experience.
Product Images courtesy of Asics.
---
Instagram: / sagasurunning
Strava: / strava
Subscriber count at time of upload: 3,158
Intro & outro music from Epidemic Sound:
Return to Future - Oh the City
www.epidemicsound.com/artists...
🤙🏻 - Sport
Well-explained, very informative video. Great voice to listen which makes a huge difference. Keep up the good work!
Thank you for the kind words and support. 🙏🏻🤙🏻
love your content!
Thank you for watching!
Hi, very well explained and this guidnace has made my purcjase so easy to NB4
THANKS A LOT ONCE AGAIN.
I’m glad it was helpful. 🤙🏻
Your reviews on running shoes are really great! Straight to the important points, clear and easy to understand really helped me decide better between the 2 of them.
I thought the Superblast was for me, but it makes more sense to pick the Novablast 4 for daily training. Now I just need to compare the Novablast 4 vs Gel
Nimbus 25
I’m glad this content can help.
The NB4 will be a better daily shoe. The Nimbus 25 is a better recovery shoe. A lot of overlap… but the nimbus likes even more easier running…
@@SagasuRunning what about durability? How many km can the soft soles last?
Thank you for your in depth thoughts on this and the speculation on how you seeing this move forward , While I have not used Asics for years (so can not compare or contribute to the conversation ) I am excited about where they will take the superblast. Most of the summer and for the entirity of my NY marathon training block I used the Hyperion max from Brooks , very different technology to the superblast, However It too is a light shoe, that delivers a fast snappy ride without the requirement of a plate.(and tbh looked to be a better shoe then its carbon counterpart) and did a good job helping me get to fitness for the race. I look forward to the alternatives put forward by the few who dare to be a bit different.
Asics is definitely thinking differently in this area. For sure. I’m exited to see what they do in 2024.
This was so helpful and well-explained. I've been battling internally about whether I can justify the cost of the SB. Now it's pretty clear...because I am one who likes a rotation of shoes, I really would only use it about once every two weeks (long run with faster efforts). Otherwise, it just seems like a fun shoe that I don't want to miss out on. And that might be enough anyway...
The NB4 and SB are really complimentary to each other, but for most running the NB4 is the better option… especially for the price.
Love this review👍 Hope you can make a full comparison of the three... novablast 3, novablast 4 and superblast so we can pick your brains on the breathability, upper comfort and most importantly, the different rides between one and the other. Like which has more energy return, which is more soft/squishy, which is more firm, which is more stable, etc. Thanks in advance
I have sort of done this. I now have a NB4 be NB3 video and a this video. I separate them in order to let me go deeper into them and for SEO so people directly searching for the comparison will find it without needing to scroll through a longer video with shoes they aren’t interested in.
I also have a NB4 initial review that goes into some of those points.
I’ll be back with a long term review in Jan or Feb and will summarize alot of those points I’m sure.
Great video man
Thank you. I hope it was helpful. 🤙🏻
I would pick the Superblast because it is way more versatile. The price is justified. I took my Superblast on vacation as my only training shoe and walking shoe. I did 200s, 400s, 1ks, long runs, and goal paced runs. Incredible shoe. I would actually race with the shoe if I didn’t want a carbon plated shoe. They really need to lower the stack to 40mm with a 5-6 mm drop: 40mm heel and 34-35mm forefoot. The combination of the FF Turbo and FF Blast+ is just magical. I like how they did not jump into the Pebax bandwagon and really stuck to a purely Asics foam with fast rebound and great integrity. The ride is so fun and also stable.
I’m a big fan of the versatility of the SB, but you use it for WAY more than I ever would.
I do agree we need a sub 40mm version of this shoe and if it’s turned as a proper race shoe it will need to be. I’m really looking forward to what Asics has in store for this one.
FF turbo might not be Pebax (which is Peba made by a specific company) but it is a Peba foam.
@@Dzaen2 the chemistry is different and it’s much firmer for sure… and has the special unique smell to it.
@@SagasuRunningehhh the Superblast ain’t gonna be a race shoe, why did you have that idea?. Asics got other options for that. It’s made as a shoe to get many miles without busting your legs aka a daily runner. MetaSpeed is there raceline. This is their race illegal daily cruiser like adidas got prime x. So Superblast 2 won’t go under 40mm I’m sure. It would rather be even higher at 50ish to compare to prime x strung
@HowIsThat69 We shall see. The SB won’t be a Metaspeed… but a shoe you can race in is relative. We shall see.
Hi Chris, thank you for this "vs" video. Well done, as always! Super clear communication and easy to understand. I stopped my Netflix and switched to yours as I don't want to wait for another day. The funny thing is I've just bought the Superblast shoes (not my favourite colour, only 1 choice) this morning and will try an easy run to transition myself for a new brand to me tomorrow. Understand you told me before this is for long run training, but I still want to take time for a transition. Tomorrow is Monday anyway. On a separate note about the price, somehow the Novablast and the Superblast are about the same price in Hong Kong. Novablast 4 won't be available here until next year...It left me no option that I just stick to my Adidas Adizero SL as my daily trainer as part of the marathon /half marathon buildup. SL is much cheaper in HK so this is my choice.
For your needs and what you described the SB is the better choice. You have the right shoe. Definitely go slow with it at first. It’s alot of shoe and it will take a few runs to break in and form your foot/leg to adjust.
The SL is a fine daily shoe, especially since you race in Adidas as well.
The NB4 is a great shoe and I’m enjoying mine quite a bit (shockingly) but it seems, from what you told me in the other comment thread, it’s not a shoe you really “need”.
See how the SB treats you first.
Chris, excited update - Just finished my first 50-min easy run with my SB. It’s absolutely amazing! I didn’t look at the pace during the run but just made sure my HR was in zone 2. When I finished and looked at the watch, the pace surprised me 😳 It’s almost a minute faster than my usual easy pace 😮
@@01lsw I told you! I’m glad it worked out for you!
That’s the problem with the SB… it’s too easy to run fast. Even if you go out for an easy run you end up going much faster… because it is so easy.
It was smart of you to stick to your HR Zone… now you have some clean data to compare against when you do actively push the pace in the shoe. 💪🏻
I just went to Boston for the Holiday weekend and only took my Superblast. Friday ran a 1/2 M 1:48 with plenty of power left at the end. Like you said the toe off really helps you generate speed. Saturday used them again for a 10K recovery, I usually use the Gel Nimbus 25 for recovery, and my legs feel so fresh (58 years old) and I normally run on flat no elevation roads by my home so the hills of boston were a challenge.
The only issues I have with the Superblast is the sizing I am a true US Men’s 9 and I had to go with a 8.5 and they still feel loose so I wear thicker socks, and the stone traps. I hope with version 2 they fill in the stone traps with some grippier outsole material and fix 2 things at once.
Love your content. Do you have a video about Pacing across the distances: 5K, 10K, 1/2M and M? Now that it is getting darker so early I just can’t get the miles in that I would like to and I want to train for my “Marathon Pace” but at shorter distances so wanted to know how to adjust my speed. I hope that makes sense.
Thanks again
If the SB works for you… it really works. For your use case, with a race in there, I to may have picked the SB as my “one shoe” too.
I find the fit of the SB (and NB4) TTS. The Metaspeeds and Magic speed fit a bit different… but I’ve not had that with the “blast” series shoes.
As far as pacing… I’ve not done a video on what (I think) you are specially looking for. However, in this video (czcams.com/video/47IcjeWVhAc/video.htmlsi=uwjp4pN9zwwqhXnT) I do talk about how I determine my pacing. I hope that helps.
Great detailed review. Count me as new subscriber!
I appreciate the subscribe. I hope you find more value in my other content. Thank you for the support! 🤙🏻
Great review, thanks
I hope it was useful! 🤙🏻
@@SagasuRunning very useful. Just started training for a marathon and my Novablast TR have done 1100km so need replacing. I plan to run the marathon in my metaspeed edge and train in the superblast. Thanks.
@@1carus1 The Superblast is BY FAR the best option for marathon training. It is an outstanding training tool for all you need to cover in a marathon build. Have a great race!
@@SagasuRunningmany thanks 👍
Very clear. Thank you.
I hope this was useful for you. 🤙🏻
I’m watching hours and hours of novasuperblast videos but none as clear as this one. Thank you for the amazing work!
Just one question, I began running 2 years ago and from there I’m using only Sketchers go run, I had 2 9s and now one 11. I use it for everything, from speed training to half marathon. I was thinking about getting the super to do my long training/race and keep the ride 11 as daily. Should I go for that or should I keep using mine for all and I should buy a racing shoes for race days.
If you don’t want to race in a plated shoe… the Superblast is the best option. As I said, I see it as a true super shoe. It is also very durable and will handle all your long training runs with ease and still feel great to race in.
The combo of the Ride 11 and Superblast is a strong one. You have everything you need for training.
I’m glad my content was useful. 🤙🏻
Ten days ago you did your 3,000 subs video, now you have about 3,200 that's like a 200 sub gain. I remember 4 or 5 months ago you did a 1,000 subs Q&A. On of these days I will get on youtube and see you have 10,000 subs, its going to happen.
Edit: I just came up for an abbreviation for Asics, a6
Working on it… thank you for the support! 🤙🏻
Ran around the local "hiking" park nearby in the novablast 3s and they were surprisingly competent. Terrible wet weather grip, but I felt planted navigating rocks and roots.
I’ve run on dirt rods/paths in the NB4 and SB and they are fine. Not my first choice but the outsole grip has rarely been an issue for me.
Excellent video - thank you, now subscribed.
How would you compare the stability of the two? I’m wondering if I could manage NB4 as I have some stability needs for longer runs.
The SB is slightly more stable due to it being a firmer platform (FFTurbo) but it's not a massive difference. Both shoes have similar widths in the forefoot and heel where the SB is slightly wider in the midfoot. The NB4 is decently stable for how soft the foam is in the shoe.
Happy to have earned the sub. Thank you for the support! 🤙🏻
I’ve ran in the Novablast 3, actually on my second pair right now. The Superblast is an amazing shoe! I squeezed 300ish miles on the Novablast & currently have 364 on the Superblast. Definitely a difference in both foams when you stack the miles.
The Superblast is firm, it feels like there’s a carbon plate. The upper is unbelievable, the only downside is sweat penetrates the upper. I use the Superblast as a daily trainer & took it out on the track a few times. It didn’t disappoint at threshold pace. Even better for long runs, your feet recover quickly.
The SB is quite special. Definitely some magic in that midsole. Asics really hit on something with that shoe. Hopefully we will see it properly become a super shoe in 2024.
Great video and love the channel. I’ve currently using the NB3 as a daily trainer (second pair) and use the Magic Speed 3 for speed work, and have the MS Paris Edge for race days. I’m thinking of changing my daily trainer though. Would you suggest changing to the NB 4 or the SB? I’m leaning more towards the NB4 as I’m afraid if I get a pair of SBs they’ll just make my Magic Speeds defunct 😅
NB4 all the way. The SB is a training tool for a marathon build, not a daily trainer. The NB4 gives you most of the SB in a softer/bouncier package for daily running (I mean you know the NB series already it seems). This way when you put on the MS3s for tempo and the MSEP for racing… you’ll feel the difference immediately… you’ll feel FAST.
Thank you for the kind words on the channel. 🤙🏻
@@SagasuRunning thank you for the response and advice my man. NB4 it is!
Very good decription
I hope it was useful! 🤙🏻
Great comparison, thanks! My takeaway is “You need both!” 😂. What ASICS racing shoe do you think they pair best with? Metaspeed Sky or Edge…?
These two are very complimentary to one another and work well together. They pair directly with the Sky+ I would say… even more so with the Sky 3 coming out next year (from what I have seen via leaks thus far).
I have two more NB4 videos coming out. The last one will be talking about how to pair these two shoes together, why and how to build on that.
Thanks for your hot take!
I've had such good service from the novablast 1 2 and 3 ( 1000's miles ) I'm always gonna stick with them . Plus my MK1 has 1200 miles on them and still fine , yes one thousand and two hundred miles . So well made 😁😁😁
I’d never push a shoe that far… foams just are not made for that kind of distance. That being said if they still work for you and/or you feel no pain or little niggles here or there… you do you.
It does feel like the NB4 will be very durable over longer miles.
Interesting comparison. Will probably get NB4 at some point, it seems better for beginners like me. I would be lying if I said I wasn't curious about how the SB feels under foot though
Start with the NB4, it will treat you better as a beginner. Watch the deals online later in 2024 and you might see a SB at a good price right before the SB2 drops…
I went for SuperBlast because of forefoot stack, and it's been sold out forever in normal widths. 3 new colorways released this month.
Asics does seem surprised by SB demand for sure.
Nice review! Can you compare the newbalance 1080v13 to novablast4? Is newbalance lean more into recovery run?
Sorry, I’ve not run in the 1080 nor do I plan too. I am planning on covering the 880 v14.
The NB4 is going to more well rounded and better for faster runs… the 1080 v13 got very panned by reviewers for being way too soft and only really good for easy/recovery runs. As I said, I’ve not run in it, nor do I plan on covering the 1080 series on the channel… for now.
I've heard pros emphasising on effort a lot more than prescribed speed. So having supershoe for long fast training is pretty much the same as doing it with light trainer using adjusted slower paces but same effort. You get beat up the same, you get the same training stimulus - you just run a bit faster with the supershoe. To me at least, people buy these for the cool factor a lot more than to really use it as a tool. Anyways, it was a good comparison, Sagasu.
I partially agree. I too have done alot of training in carbon plated shoes (I’m far from elite)… but I don’t always want to run in carbon. For a build for an A race, I’m ok with it. I spent ALOT of time in Vaporflys the past few months…
So to have a supervisor with no plate…. That gives me the efficiency of that design, without the pitfalls or always running in carbon and the added training stimulus of not running in carbon… is a huge deal. The Superblast is great but there is huge opportunity for it to be better… even more so now that the NB4 exists.
Thank you for such a thorough review. I couldn’t decide between these two shoes, but now, I finally decided to get the superblast shoes. The Novablast 4 reminds me of my NB SC Trainer V2 shoes that is very bouncy, however I couldn’t increase the speed if I wanted to go fast. I’m a treadmill long distance runner. Would you still recommend the superblast for longer runs with speed? Also, does the superblast has better stability than the novablast 4? My NB SC Trainer V2 was too squishy and bouncy that I feel I need a little bit more stability support when my legs gets tired into the longer mileage. Does the Superblast size run true to size? Thank you for your help.
The SB is ideal for longer runs with speed (MP TO 10k especially). Far better than the NB4, which is a better easy run shoe.
Stability… the footprint of both shoes is similar… but the SB is more stable due to the firmer foam and (slightly) wider midfoot.
I went TTS for the SB… same size I wear in all Asics shoes (and most non Asics) with no issues. Somewhere between a race fit and a training fit.
@@SagasuRunning Thank you. I just subbed to your helpful channel. :)
Happy to have earned the sub. 🤙🏻
Great video! I am used to run with shoes with a drop of 4-6 max. What would be for you an advantage of the NB4 if I only plan to use it for my easy run? I am currently using the Noosa tri 14 and Hoka Mach 5.Thanks for explaining things very clearly in your videos.
Given you have the Noosa 14 and Mach 5… you don’t really need the NB4. The Noosa will be a bit firmer and roll you off your toe more aggressively and the Mach 5 is going to be more versatile for faster running but just fine for easy running. When you need to replace either the NB4 would be a decent option though.
Thank you for the kind words. I’m glad my content is useful. 🤙🏻
Thank you for your answer. I need to replace the Noosa very soon and was wondering about trying something new. The Hoka are one of my favorite.
@@SagasuRunning
@@SELiM__ If you want something softer and less structured, but still very rolly…to replace the Noosa… that would be NB4. There is also a Mach 6 coming in a few months… and you may also like the Mach X if you want the snap like the Noosa had….
I was thinking at the Mach X but read it was not ideal for more than 10k race. I am training for a marathon at the moment. The only things that makes me hesitating with the NB4 is the drop. I really enjoy the 5mm drop and didn't run in a 8mm in years. Thanks for your time
@@SagasuRunning
@@SELiM__ If you are training for a marathon… you want the Superblast. That’s the shoe for the longer miles and marathon pace work. It also has a 8mm drop but honestly, you don’t feel it. It’s not extreme.
I havent tried the SB as Im a size 14, liked the NB3 ok and really looking forward to the 4, if only bc it sounds closer.
The NB4 is a great shoe. Hopefully you really enjoy it when you do get it. 🤙🏻
If you get time or resources, vomero 17 and 1080 v13 with Novablast 4 comparison would be super!
I will be making a video talking about how the NB4 and V17 can work together, that will be out this weekend.
As far as the 1080…. I don’t run in New Balance or have any interest in anything they make so they won’t be happening. However, I did see Ben Parkes talking about how the NB4 compares to a current Nee Balance show or two.
I really dont find the FFTurbo in the Superblast firm. Its dense but has great cushioning. I find it a little unstable for slower running.
Compared to FFBlast+ ECO, FFTurbo is much much firmer. Beyond that it has a much higher resiliency so it returns much more energy. There what makes it feel off for slowing running.
@@SagasuRunning I'm not saying it isn't "firmer" than FFBlast+ I'm simply stating i dont find it "firm". I find the Nimbus for example "very soft".
I use prescription orthotics in my Novablast 2 shoes and they fit fine. Will they fit in Novablast 4?
You should have no problems. The NB4 has a removable insole and a very solid footbed.
I have a Superblast and I really like it
They are pretty great!
I just picked up Novablast 4 today with the hope of breaking it in over the next month to race my first full marathon on May 26. I also tried on the Superblast, but it didn't feel like as good of a fit. Do you think the Novablast will do well as my race day shoe if I'm targeting a sub-4 finish (with a real goal of simply finishing my first full marathon)? I'm coming from a Hoka Mach 5 and have been dealing with a lot of pain.
It wouldn’t be my first choice for a marathon. It’s too soft and squishy, after 30k it’s going to feel like running in mud. The Superblast was the shoe you wanted. Or something with a plate in it to help in those later kms.
That being said, if you goal is to just finish… it should do the job.
@@SagasuRunning I appreciate the honesty. Did my first couple of runs in them yesterday and today. Out of curiosity, how would you compare the Hoka Mach 5 with the Novablast and Superblast? I ask because that’s the only true running shoe I’ve ever worn for training before getting these Novablasts and my alternative was probably to just buy one more pair of those if I didn’t get something different.
Would it make sense to use my novablast 3 for daily training and buy novablast 4 for long runs? I’m training for my first marathon btw
If you are training for a marathon you’d be better picking one of the Novablasts and pairing it with a Superblast. The Superblast will be for your long runs, marathon pace work and faster running…. While the novablast will be for easy running.
Ive seen some of your videos and thought I was subscribed but I guess not- pesky algo . Hope you land some AF3s!
Ha! I just commented on your "AF3 Sweepstakes" video...I also failed it. So it goes...
Is the sizing and fit true to size? I'm a size 8US on the SB, should I stay with size 8 on the NB4?
I went TTS between both shoes and wear the same size in both. The fit is similar between them.
interesting view as a stability runner the SuperBlast is a option but its a clear no go for the Novablast. ffTurbo is phenomenal, only go blast+ if you want to go slow
Agree. Both are very wide platforms underfoot but FFTurbo is much more supportive and firm. FFBlast+ ECO, while better than just FFBlast+, can be all over the place… especially if you need stability.
also between runners i know, bodyweight is the difference. lightweights love the novablast(say sub70kg) but SuperBlast gets the vote on 80+kg runners its subject not really mentioned runners weight and midsole performance. @@SagasuRunning
@@stubestrong It comes up in extremes. The ASICS Nimbus 26 and the Adidas Prime X 2 Strung come to mind as shoes always mentioned for heavier runners. Or shoes that heavier runners can activate.
There is a sudden -30% off discount in the new red/white color of Superblast (only men US9.5 has discount but I don’t know why) in Amazon and I’ve placed order immediately although I bought Vaporfly 2 for my 10k race in Jan last month 😅. Later I can compare and decide to choose which one to be my actual race shoes .
The Superblast IS a super shoe… and a very capable racer. I’d probably pick the more aggressive VF2 for a short race like a 10k… but for a half/full marathon it’s a very even and hard choice.
@@SagasuRunning Thanks for your quick response. Will see if I want carbon plated or non-carbon plated on the race day because there should be many walk and wait before actually can arrive the departure point and after finished, there should be very crowded and a lot of walk to the public transport later. I don’t want to wear VF2 and walk too much. That’s my little bit concern.
Ya, the VF2 is not very walk friendly. If you aren’t going for a PR in the 10k then the SB will be the better shoe for the conditions you referenced. It’s a fast shoe but for a 10k the carbon plate will definitely help.
Cursious to know how would you describe both of these shoes just in ONE word?
NB4 = bouncy
SB = energetic
Hey I really appreciate your videos, I am from India and walk around fifteen thousand steps every day, which ASICS, NIKE shoe I can explore, kindly help me with your guidance…. Regards
I’d start with the Asics Nimbus 25 or 26 or Nike Invincible 3, depending on which one you can get cheaper. See how those feel then work from there. 🤙🏻
Hello Can you make review of 1080 V12 New Balance thank you
Sorry… I don’t run in New Balance.
@@SagasuRunning why IS that try it very good
I just find nothing they make interesting. The last NB I ran in was the Rebel V2 which I was less than impressed with. We all have our favorites…
I am a slow runner. I take about 6 hours to finish a Marathon. Can I use Novablast 4 for a Marathon ? I don't need to be fast. I am ok with 6 hours plus time for a Marathon.
Honestly, I’d go for the Superblast. You’ll appreciate the firmer foam in the later stages of the race. The NB4 will work… but it will feel super mushy in that last 10-15k….
As somebody with long feet (US 14) I always get a mix of shoe envy and annoyance with ASICS as for some reason they only offer their "super" shoes up to a US 13 and so it is interesting that the Superblast is "super" but the Novablast is not as have had the first three versions. It's never been a shoe I "love" but then again it is hard to love any "daily trainers" in my size as they are usually either overly heavy or overly clumpy. The Novablast 3 is perhaps unique in my shoe "quiver" in being the only shoe I have that is relatively light for what it is on the scales but feels like a heavy shoe on foot and find it hard to "get going" in it. That said after initially hating it, I do now reach for it more often and now like it more than say the Boston 12 which seems to be shoe of the year for many although I scratch my head at that! So the Novablast 4, I am getting conflcting soundbites. You say it is a bit narrower on foot than the 3 but has a wider base. This does worry me as although my feet are long, they are also very narrow and I find a wide base shoe like the Ultrafly just horrible to run in. And then you say it is really just an easy day shoe and the Superblast is "faster". That's logical from the price alone but again leaves me with a feeling is ASICS a company I should send my money to when they don't really want to cater for me in full. And I might have to stop running if I had to run in a Kayano which of course they do offer in my size.
The NB3 and NB4 have similar widths to me, the difference I think is the upper material and the construction of the shoe. The woven upper on the NB4 hugs the foot tighter (again, a mm or two) but does have more give to it and will ultimately likely fit looser.
As for the width of the midsole in the forefoot… the NB4 does have a similar vibe to the Ultrafly, if not wider. Look at the front on angles in the videos I’ve done and you can see the extreme terraces on both sides of the forefoot. It add 5-6mm over the NB3 but also creates much more of a centering action. It’s doesn’t feel bulky to me though.
For your narrow foot it may see like a lot. They may not be something you enjoy.
I feel like Asics is making a parallel line to their running lines. It’s what I explored in the “What to expect in 2024 from Asics” video. They have their classic models… then in parallel that have the NB4/SB the goes directly to the MS Sky+ path. Between those three shoes you have most bases covered for road training and racing, the one area where there is a gap is shorter speed work… but I’ve had a lot of people comment they love the SB for that too.
The larger sizing for Asics is odd and seems completely random. I could guesstimate reason as to why, but it would be full on conjecture with no basis is reality. But, I agree… it is odd.
The NB3 and NB4 have similar widths to me, the difference I think is the upper material and the construction of the shoe. The woven upper on the NB4 hugs the foot tighter (again, a mm or two) but does have more give to it and will ultimately likely fit looser.
As for the width of the midsole in the forefoot… the NB4 does have a similar vibe to the Ultrafly, if not wider. Look at the front on angles in the videos I’ve done and you can see the extreme terraces on both sides of the forefoot. It add 5-6mm over the NB3 but also creates much more of a centering action. It’s doesn’t feel bulky to me though.
For your narrow foot it may see like a lot. They may not be something you enjoy.
I feel like Asics is making a parallel line to their running lines. It’s what I explored in the “What to expect in 2024 from Asics” video. They have their classic models… then in parallel that have the NB4/SB the goes directly to the MS Sky+ path. Between those three shoes you have most bases covered for road training and racing, the one area where there is a gap is shorter speed work… but I’ve had a lot of people comment they love the SB for that too.
The larger sizing for Asics is odd and seems completely random. I could guesstimate reason as to why, but it would be full on conjecture with no basis is reality. But, I agree… it is odd.
@@SagasuRunning thanks for the detailed reply! I suspect the lime green colour alone will be a reason for me to try the Novablast 4. With my similarly coloured top and socks and lanky frame I would be easy to spot (well one hopes) LOL. Forgot to say that I have always found the Novablast versions to run a litte long but ASICS sizing is odd as like their stack heights (well until recently) their sizing charts don't really align to the standards. I even tried the US 13 in the Novablast 3 (as well as my normal US 14) and probably concluded the US 13.5 they don't do would have been best. That said having trimmed the laces in the US 14 (which shows how narrow my feet) are I largely now only reach for the 14. As such I am always "nervous" about talk of shoes getting wider. Seems to be a recent trend in the industry. Hardly anybody now makes a narrow shoe per se (Ghost 15 only one AFAIK and that wasn't overly narrow) so maybe everybody's feet have got wider in recent years or more logically makes more commercial sense to sell shoes to the widest demographic and you don't do that these by making a narrow racing flat shoe in general - Takumi Sen 8/9 perhaps the last one to fit that bill and even that isn't that narrow I found.
@@TimGrose Please, for the love of the internet… if you buy a pair of the “Lime Blast” Novablast 4s… let Sue unbox them for your video… 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
It does seem like the Takumi Sen is your shoe. I honestly can’t think of a more narrow shoe. If you can get the right length… the TS10 doesn’t look a lot different than the TS9 (I’m going to talk about this a bit in Dec) which I’m disappointed about… but it does look to be a bit wider… so we shall see.
Asics shoes have been long, the NB3 felt long to me… but the SB and NB4 don’t. I’ve gone TTS in all of them though.
@@SagasuRunning ha ha - I guess I can “sell” them to her as very luminous. Was noticeable how my pink Vaporfly 3 stand out in fading light in my latest vid too.
How would you compare the Superblast to Vaporfly 3?
Ahh… you are asking the right question. I’m going to cover this (kind of) in a video in the next month and talk through it. It’s not straightforward and the answer really is… “it depends”.
@@SagasuRunning
I exclusively use Vapor 3s in my training and runs (21ks and 42ks). I currently have 6, one still unused.
I wanted to try the Superblast after watching your videos on Superblast and the Novs vs Super, for daily training, to add in the rotation.
@Amtcboy This is how I trained all fall. Peg40s for easy running and VF3s for everything else, including all long runs and workouts. I ended up with 3 pairs of VF3s last year. It’s an outstanding shoe.
Swapping from the Superblast to the Vaporfly 3 can be tough… the SB makes the VF3 feel like a minimal racing flat…. Which is crazy. But the SB is an excellent tool for training. The VF3 is faster…. But the SB is smoother.
@@SagasuRunning
Thank you.
спасибо
🙏🏻🙏🏻
Novablast win for me because of the price
You can’t beat the price of the NB4. You are getting a lot of shoe!
Can you done zone 1 and zone 2 running on superblast? I'm hesitant to buy Novablast 4.
I mean, ya, the SB will do that but that is really not what it is designed for. But the NB4 is literally designed for Z1 & Z2 running.
z1 and z2 in nimbus, cumulus and nova series. z3 runs in superblast.
Yeah see I like the superblast for my long runs, prime x strung for my tempos, and gel nimbus 25 for easy runs. Dont have space for Novablast sadly.
Interesting combo… but if it works for you that’s amazing.
It does, and I do often throw in a run with New Balance Rebel v3 my all time fav running shoe as well as occasional 10k pace work with the Brooks Hyperion Max, quite an interesting shoe I must say. @@SagasuRunning
@@soul_headshot I used to enjoy the Rebels… but prefer the Nike Streakfly or (even more) the Adidas Adios 8. Also… I am coming around to Brooks… still have a ways to go but I’m paying attention to the brand now.
That's interesting. I have the Adios 8 as well and would say I still prefer the rebel v3 more, except for maybe speed work. The Hyperion Max is the only shoe by Brooks that I own and I only paid $65 for it on a dick sporting goods discount, but to be honest with you it's interesting. At first I was not a fan due to it be very firm to be marketed as a speed trainer, but after a few 5-10 mile efforts with it I can say it's not bad and it is very different feel from any of my other shoes, which happens to be like 20+ lol. @@SagasuRunning I have seen some of their newer stuff from the recent running event and it is quite interesting what they are putting out. In all honesty a lot of brands seem to be popping off with interesting shoe designing coming up. Sigh... my wallet and legs are in danger lol.
@@soul_headshot I do prefer the feeling the Streakfly, but I prefer the durability of the Adios 8 and can do more in it. I’m currently using the Adios 8 as a daily trainer when I road run. One I can do easy runs in and fartleks at MP or HMP. However I’m doing more trail running at the moment.
I agree some things Brooks is putting out are interesting for 2024. I may just cover a model or two this year.
I prefer Prime-x v1 over superblast
Im not a fan of the PX series… but will take the simplicity and versatility of the SB over it without question.
@@SagasuRunning I cant understand why. PX is soft and explosive. Perfect for longruns and tempo. SB feals so dead in comparison! 😎
Maybe i just like the timing in compression/rebound alot more in px. Just feels lovely to me :)
@@13lars To my foot the PX is heavy, bulking, unstable and filled with unnecassary elements., especially the PXS2. I have quite a few videos about the shoe and what I think it really is for Adidas (i.e not a serious shoe).
Granted, I've spent much more time in the SB...but it is ultra lightweight, agile (for it's size), explosive and versatile.
At the and of the day I'd pick a Nike Vaporfly 3 over either...for long runs, tempo runs and racing... so it's all a moot point.
@@13lars Some people do find that works for them. I like LSP but I find it is very hit or miss in Adidas’s shoes. If I like it I really like it (Adios 8) and if I don’t… I really don’t (PX).
Novablast wins for me since no rock magnet
Ya, those cutouts on the SB outsole are an odd choice, they likely doesn’t save much weight or improve flex at all.
Never got that problem. Then again, I don't use it exclusively for trails so. I have never had a rock stuck in either Nova or Superblast.
I’ve only had a problem with it once… picking up a rock form a bike path on the road… it was annoying to dislodge… it would be better it the cutouts weren’t there at all.
@@SagasuRunning people in my city like putting gravel everywhere, so it's a big problem
They certainly would be in the SB, sadly.
Superblast all day > the nova blast 3 has been too squishy maybe the 4 will be better
The NB4 is much better… but if you like a firmer shoe… SB all the way, yes.
The novablast 3 was a very dull meh shoe, I can’t get excited about the 4. Easy running is training, the superblast does this very well.
If the SB works for you for that, yes… it does it well. The NB4 does easy running better though…
Shame about the launch colours though, they are terrible.
I love the “Lime Blast” colorway I have but otherwise agree. Knowing Asics and all their random colorway drops that they do, there will be plenty of other colorways to choose from.
@@SagasuRunning Bright/neon green is definitely the best and always a winner.
Blue Expanse/Blue Teal is fantastic for me.
@@theandroids It gives me Nike Vaporfly Next% v1 vibes… which I dig a lot.
@@SagasuRunning 👌
I don't understand how all these world famous shoe manufactures are all of a sudden jumping on this "high-stack" bandwagon. Everyone was into the minimalist aka zero-drop sneaker now this is a complete 180 in the span of one year. Why don't we see Kenyans or Ethiopians running in these high-stack shoes? Is there some conspiracy to wreck our legs going on? Manufacturers are now using AI to design shoes? Something is definitely going on. I love how these shoes feel, but I don't know if I'm going to pay for it 10 years down the road.
I’m not a huge fan of high stack everything… but…
- The minimalist trend was over in running shoes well over 10 years ago.
- East African runners generally ONLY train in high stack shoes, often mostly in carbon plated shoes. Elites don’t want to train in shoes with a stack height over 40mm in the heel, due to fear of injury and the fact they can’t race in them legally… but you will see them racing exclusively in high stack carbon plated shoes, training in them the majority of the time and rarely in anything else (though it does happen).
The simple fact as to why… is two-fold. The running industry moves in trends. We just evolved out of the super shoe era (to the point where super shoes are common now) AND market demand. Max stack super cushy shoes sell and often sell well to casual runners and joggers… who out number fanatic runners 5to1 (most likely).
So it’s money driving “innovation” in the max stack everything trend we are in right now.
No conspiracy. Nothing is going on. Just economics.
They being said… rotating a range of shoes, from max stack to low stack and every lthing in between is the best for longterm foot and running health.
@@SagasuRunning Interesting. So the elite runners train and race using high-stack? Wow I didn't think that would be the case. But even ten years ago there weren't high-stack shoes like we have now like Ons, Hoka, Nike, Asics etc. So have the elites also been increasing their stack? It seems like Hoka really brought these high-stack shoes to the forefront. They definitely had them before Nike and Asics. How is it beneficial to rotate stacks? Also, I heard that high-stack is better for the knees but low stack is better for overall foot health? Maybe it's the other way around? I don't remember. Is there any science to back up why high-stack is better?
Also, it's interesting that you say NB/SB feel rolly. Exactly right. I tried them on for the first time today and I found it so weird trying to walk in them normally. The shoes were literally making me heel strike into a normal stride. Is it a bad idea to use them for every day street shoes as well? Let's say I wanted two pairs. One for running casually along the river 5k/10k etc. And another pair for long distance strolling around town. What Asics would you recommend? Btw, I like trail running and want to get more into it. I have my eye on the Hoka Speedgoat 5 or Hoka Mafate. Any experience there?
@dotinsideacircle Actually, On was very late to the high stack party. Asics was the first who really popularized it during this current trend with the original Novablast. Nike was next with the Invincible. Everyone else followed and we are where we are now. Obviously Hoka was the originator about 12 years ago.
Elites jumped on the super shoe thing well before anyone else, due to efficiencies, from about 2016.
Running is a high impact activity. No matter the type of shoe or technology… you can’t escape the forces.
Max stack shoes (and the geometries that make them runnable), generally take pressure off of the toes, ankles and lower legs… but more them to the thighs and hips.
Low stack shoes (and traditional geometries) require better toe and foot strength as well as ankle flexibility. They do train the feet more but can cause issues in runners who don’t have the required strength (or patience to develop it).
@dotinsideacircle Walking is a naturally a heel to toe motion… so a max stack shoe with a rockered geometry would be a good call for walking. The only concern would be stability if the shoe is too soft. I think a good Asics walker would be the Nimbus 25… but the Novablast 4 will be ok. I wouldn’t recommend the Superblast for walking.
As for trial shoes. Both the models you mentioned are very good and very popular. I’d recommend the Speedgoat as it’s a bit more well rounded and will handle more terrain. The Mafate is better for technical terrain.
Are they good for long walks and stair climbing?
The Noveblast 4 is, not the Superblast. The Novablast is an excellent walking shoe.